Cannondale Topstone

The Topstone is Cannondale's gravel bike and it has earned a strong following in the UK gravel scene. With 72 used listings tracked at an average price around £2,950, it offers competitive value against the Canyon Grail and Specialized Diverge. Cannondale brings their engineering focus to the gravel category with some clever features.

The carbon Topstone features Kingpin rear suspension, a small pivot at the seatstay junction that allows the rear triangle to flex independently for improved comfort and traction on rough surfaces. It is a simpler and lighter solution than a full suspension system, and it works well on UK bridleways and gravel tracks. The alloy Topstone does not have Kingpin but is still a capable gravel bike.

Most used Topstones sit between £1,690 and £3,520, with the carbon models commanding the higher prices.

What it's like to ride

The carbon Topstone with Kingpin feels planted and composed on loose surfaces. The rear suspension pivot adds noticeable traction on gravel and takes the edge off washboard surfaces. On tarmac, you barely notice it. The geometry is stable without feeling slow, and the bike handles well whether you are on road or off.

The alloy version rides like a solid, traditional gravel bike. It lacks the Kingpin comfort but is lighter than many steel alternatives and handles predictably. Both versions take wide tyres (up to 47mm) and have plenty of mounting points for bags and bottles.

Who it's for

Gravel riders who want a bike with clever engineering. Mixed terrain commuters. Bikepackers and adventure riders. Road cyclists looking to explore off road without a mountain bike. UK riders who ride a mix of lanes, towpaths, and bridleways.